Transport Transitions: Advancing Sustainable and Inclusive Mobility

Table of Contents

1. Digital Transport Infrastructure

   1. Frontmatter

   2. Test Vessel Development for Autonomous Maritime Research

      • Open Access

      Juha Kalliovaara, Jarkko Paavola, Tero Jokela, Amin Majd

      Abstract

      Digitalization and climate neutrality are the current global mega trends, in which autonomous transportation can provide solutions. This paper presents the Turku University of Applied Sciences test vessel eM/S Salama and the related remote operations center for autonomous maritime research. We briefly describe the status of autonomy in maritime environments, the related technologies, our test infrastructure and the future research directions. The test vessel sensoring system is also used to collect data, which will be published in annotated open access datasets for machine learning.

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   3. Accelerating the Deployment of Shared and Digital Mobility Hubs Across Europe

      • Open Access

      Franziska Wolf, João Henrique Paulino Pires Eustachio, Walter Leal Filho, Tessa T. Taefi, Arjen Rodenburg

      Abstract

      The access to or use of goods and services without owning them is a central promise of the sharing economy, a disruptive concept that supports the global transformation towards entering more climate-resilient, sustainable development pathways. Potentially reducing carbon footprints, alleviating urban traffic congestion and pollution, as well as increasing social mobility, shared and digital mobility solutions are gaining increasing popularity in cities around the globe. Moreover, the implementation of shared mobility schemes may not only result in more efficient and competitive urban transport systems, but also contribute to social equity and positively impact the quality of life in cities. We introduce a distinctive integral approach to improve multimodal accessibility in urban areas. By providing real-life evidence of the introduction and uptake of so-called shared and digital mobility hubs the needed transition of current transport systems towards a sustained and climate-friendly regime may be accelerated. These measures will be explored in a set of cases from the Netherlands and Norway that may pave the way for further implementation, upscaling and replication of mobility hubs across Europe.

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   4. Assessing the Readiness of European Cities for Distributed Traffic Management: A Smart Infrastructure Readiness Index

      • Open Access

      Konstantinos Katzilieris, Panagiotis Fafoutellis, Eleni I. Vlahogianni

      Abstract

      The ever-increasing emergence of novel intelligent traffic systems that aim to improve traffic flows and reduce congestion in cities is creating a growing need for assessing the readiness of cities around the world to implement such systems. Yet, no standardized method currently exists for assessing a city’s readiness for smart traffic management infrastructure. This research paper aims to develop an index, the Smart Infrastructure Readiness Index (SIRI), to assess the readiness of cities for novel traffic management schemes. For the development of the index, interviews with representatives from over 10 different EU member states were conducted to gather information on the importance of different factors that affect implementing smart traffic solutions. Analytic Hierarchy Process was then utilized to extract the priority of each factor, considering both their relative importance and their interdependencies. Findings provide a hierarchical ranking of 6 EU cities, highlighting their current state of smart infrastructure readiness.

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   5. Improving Data Exchange in Transport and Logistics Through System Federation: Application Evaluation Results

      • Open Access

      Sofoklis Dais, Georgia Ayfantopoulou

      Abstract

      Establishing better system connectivity by linking disparate legacy systems and information silos across Europe has been at the center of research the past years. Concepts like service federation, interoperable logistics, data spaces and system unification highlight the significance of unifying systems and data by promoting system interoperability and compatibility. Although promising, these are still at conceptual level, while limited practical evidence has been provided at the moment. FENIX Federated Network established the first pan-European federated network of interoperable platforms as an enabler of B2B and B2A data exchange and sharing between transport and logistics platforms in Europe. Using the Operational Evaluation Measurement Framework, this paper measures the impact of FENIX Federated Network, used as enabler for end-to-end supply chain digitalization, to the operational performance of selected logistics operations across Europe. Notable outcomes include higher load factors, increase in modal shift for both road and rail operations, increase in delivery reliability, enhancement of the digitalization processes (digital document exchange, process automation), as well as important decreases in the operational externalities (CO2, NOx emissions) and the related process times (i.e., fulfillment, customs, turnaround, (un)loading, administration, automation, travel).

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   6. Examining the Impact of System Federation on Transport and Logistics: Selected Cases in Greece and Italy

      • Open Access

      Sofoklis Dais, Giulia Renzi, Andreas Kortenhaus, Georgia Ayfantopoulou, Ioannis Kanellopoulos, Angelos Amditis, Godfried Smit, Hélder Pereira

      Abstract

      New supply chain governance models transform operations by establishing large-scale, intelligent infrastructures that merge, objects, data and business processes. Considering that supply chains are intricate structures encompassing multifaceted operations, evaluating the consequences of their digital transformation is imperative. System Federation has emerged as an enabler of interoperability and seamless data exchange in transport and logistics. The Federation is a promising concept that is still new and tested only in a few instances, while; its impact has yet to be measured substantially. This paper presents the impact of Federation on the performance of selected logistics operations in Greece and Italy. Using a mixed-methods approach, the assessment performed as part of the FENIX project, focusing on operational performance, cost-effectiveness and gap analysis, and impact assessment. Results showed that the Federation showed promising overall impact. Operational improvements ranged from better shipment visibility, shorter waiting times, faster deliveries, to less CO2 emissions. The most effective services were related to a higher visibility of shipments (Italy) and improved notification and exchange of customs documents (Greece). The gap analysis was successful showing that 100% of all reported gaps in Greece and 71% in Italy could be closed with the use of the Federation.

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   7. Railway Switches and Crossings: Identifying and Clustering Passages Using GNSS Measurements

      • Open Access

      Jonas Vuitton, Julian Lohbreier, Markus Hecht

      Abstract

      This paper proposes a methodology to identify passages of a rail vehicle on switches and crossings using GNSS measurement and the railway infrastructure database of the considered region. Given the imprecision of GNSS measurements, a map matching task is performed. Then, a database containing all identified switch passages is populated, containing construction parameters of the switch as well as passage parameters such as the route taken or the speed of the vehicle. Further, the switch passages are clustered in representative categories. For this, a dimension reduction using the t-SNE algorithm is performed and an agglomerative clustering algorithm is used. The methodology is applied to 2400 km of measured rides of a German regional train, resulting in 2139 turnout passages, classified in 22 clusters.

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   8. Frugal Connectivity for Railway Applications

      • Open Access

      Pierre Le Corre, Pierre-Yves Petton, Rodrigue Fargeon

      Abstract

      Today, new challenges are emerging for the railway industry: the digitalization of the infrastructure and the automation of supervision, maintenance, and even trains. These new requirements and the growing number of applications demand comprehensive connectivity with high reliability, high availability, low latency, and, in some situations, high throughput.

      Furthermore, the existing private telecom network dedicated to railway is built on 2G technologies and has to be replaced by 2035. The European FRMCS program relies on the standardization of “5G plus MCx” for railway applications, shifting from a network as an asset vision to a more modern one: the Network as a Service. However, despite the transition from 2G to 5G for the existing infrastructure, a significant portion of the railway network will still lack coverage from the private telecom network.

      Given this context, the emergence of new high-performance applications prompts us to explore new telecom solutions, ranging from sharing a public terrestrial network to using satellite communication networks and incorporating millimeter-wave technology. One potential solution could be orchestrating these technologies to provide the train with the best available connection at any point during its journey.

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   9. Improving Cyclist Safety and Infrastructure Planning: A Data-Driven Case Study of Cork City Council Project

      • Open Access

      Gorkem Yetik, Usama Anwar, Ross Foley, Leonard Goodwin

      Abstract

      This technical paper advocates data-driven urban transportation sustainability, prioritizing cyclist detection via radar and thermal imaging sensors. It offers a model for cities striving to improve cyclist safety and sustainable transit while emphasizing the integration of precise cyclist detection into existing transportation systems. Funded by Ireland’s National Transport Authority (NTA) through the Active Travel Grant program, the Cork City Council (CCC) cycle detection project aims to enhance cyclist safety, promote sustainable transportation, and gather data for future infrastructure planning. This aligns with CCC’s active travel strategy, highlighting technology’s role in supporting sustainable and secure transportation. The paper underscores the critical importance of accurate cyclist detection and provides guidance for urban planners, transportation engineers, and policymakers. Data-driven decisions prioritize safety, sustainability, and a better urban cycling experience. The project evaluates various cyclist detection technologies at 102 Cork city junctions, ultimately selecting radar detectors and thermal imaging. Implementing these technologies ensures precise cyclist detection, counting, and the supply of invaluable data for future planning and cyclist safety. Strategic technology implementation empowers the CCC traffic management system, facilitating accurate cyclist detection and counting, which informs infrastructure investments and safety measures, enhancing the cycling experience and urban efficiency. Continuous data collection and dashboard visualization streamline analysis, fostering improvements in cycling infrastructure for all road users.

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   10. Operational Obstacles of the Building Information Model in Railway Infrastructures

       • Open Access

       Nassiba Khelladi, Sana Debbech

       Abstract

       The development of a BIM (Building Information Model) digital model of a railway infrastructure is based on the various BIM standards. This BIM digital model can also be a part of a digital twin. BIM standardization work (pre-standardization phase) and BIM digital model work (post-standardization phase) must ensure four levels of interoperability: semantic, organizational, technical (or technological tools) and legal. The various actors in the railway sector need to have, in each phase, visibility of the operational obstacles to be dealt with and their articulation. In this context, an empirical study based on the ISO 9001 standard, makes it possible to identify the main findings. It ranges from the implementation to the operation and maintenance of the works in the two phases (pre and post-standardization), and this, on the four levels of interoperability. This empirical study allows to summarize the operational obstacles such as the maintenance of the IFC standard; its implementation by software publishers; adapting the LOIn standard to the railway sector; sharing object libraries in OpenBIM; lack of training, understanding, or application of BIM standards in BIM digital model projects, etc. Finally, this study ends with the identification of priorities in terms of actions and describes their added value, in order to improve the management of the life cycle of standards and digital BIM models.

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   11. Fiber-Optic Technology for Monitoring Asphalt Roads-Results of a Feasibility Study

       • Open Access

       Martin Peter Lipus, Johannes Hart, Christopher Wollin, Charlotte M. Krawczyk, Peter Mock, Matthias Breidbach, Bastian Wacker

       Abstract

       Infrastructure operators such as the Autobahn GmbH of the Federal Government in Germany depend on being able to use as much information as possible about the existing infrastructure for planning and maintenance. In addition to the existing non-destructive measurements, monitoring with sensor technology built into the infrastructure can also provide useful information for efficient maintenance planning. As part of a feasibility study, various setups of new developments in fiber-optic sensors were installed in a rehabilitated autobahn section in order to investigate traffic-related information as well as long-term integrity. In addition to temperature monitoring during the road construction, strain and acoustic measurements were recorded and evaluated during defined crossings of traffic. The preliminary results show that traffic relevant information such as the counting of passing vehicles, their velocity, vehicle type and axle load can be derived from the fiber-optic data. Furthermore, the results suggest that relevant parameters about the elastic properties of the roadwork (Young’s Modulus and material fatigue) can be extracted. At the present time, considerable efforts are still required for data preparation and data analysis to apply this monitoring technology permanently. This is the objective of the current and future development stages.

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   12. Advancing Automated Freight Transport: Unveiling the Requirements and Readiness of Physical and Digital Road Infrastructure

       • Open Access

       Knut Jetlund, Kristoffer Tangrand, Petter Arnesen

       Abstract

       This study aims to unveil what requirements the introduction of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) will have for the Physical and Digital Road Infrastructure (PDI) on public roads. The study is based on a literature review of reports from research and innovation projects combined with literature from academic databases. The findings indicate that supporting CAVs with an adapted public PDI will be beneficial for the CAV industry and required for authorities. Most requirements concern the digital infrastructure, emphasising technologies for improved perception, oversight, control, positioning, and navigation. Requirements for the physical infrastructure concern adaptions for avoiding conflicts with other road users. Standardisation of the PDI requirements and the information representing the real world is a critical issue to solve before fully introducing CAVs. The information needed to define and extend CAVs’ Operational Design Domain (ODD) will be crucial for continuous driving in an automated mode.

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   13. Radar Satellite Observations of Bridge Deformations—A New Method for Monitoring Without Applied Sensors

       • Open Access

       Alois Vorwagner, Maciej Kwapisz, Philip Leopold, Thomas Moser

       Abstract

       The evaluation of structures with the help of remote sensing radar satellites offers new possibilities for the permanent monitoring of deformations of entire structures and their surroundings. Instead of equipping structures individually with expensive discrete sensors or surveying them terrestrially with expensive instruments such as laser scans or drones in a labor-intensive manner, deformations can be continuously recorded with the use of radar satellite data. In the future it might be possible to centrally monitor, evaluate and assess various bridge deformations network-wide.

       A recently completed research project on Semmering-Autobahn S6 in Austria investigated new approaches to improve deformation detection based on radar-satellite measurements using open data form ESA’s Sentinel 1 Mission. The aim was to evaluate how satellite data can best contribute to deformation monitoring of engineering structures and how structural thermal deformation can be compensated. On the S6 Schottwien bridge (main span 250 m) corner reflectors (artificial back scatterer with known coordinates), temperature sensors and inclination sensors with low energy consumption were installed. A new proposed temperature compensation model, which is based on thermodynamic parameter studies, can predict the structure temperature of the bridge only with using central historical weather data. The accuracy of radar satellite measurements can be dramatically improved without any sensors applied at all.

       An annual cycle shows that the satellite measurement has an accuracy of 2–3 mm related to an installed long-term levelling reference sensor system and are well suited for monitoring long span bridges.

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   14. Benefits of Radio Coverage Planning of Large-Scale Roadside C-ITS (ITS-G5) Communication Networks

       • Open Access

       Shobanraj Navaratnarajah, Piraba Navaratnam, David Laoide-Kemp, Saul Friedner, Simon Parsons

       Abstract

       Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) aim to enhance road safety, traffic efficiency and environmental performance of road transportation by enabling communication between the vehicles and the road infrastructure. Today, vehicle manufacturers and road operators are investing significantly in C-ITS technology and infrastructure implementation to realise its potential benefits. In Europe, the C-Roads platform aims to harmonise the deployment of C-ITS infrastructure and services across Europe. As part of the C-Roads platform, Transport Infrastructure Ireland implemented C-ITS pilot infrastructure to deliver C-ITS services to road users via ITS-G5 and cellular communications. For the deployment of ITS-G5 Roadside Units along a 60 km distance of the pilot routes in Ireland, a radio coverage planning exercise was undertaken to optimise the deployment. Several technical and practical factors were taken into consideration during this exercise. This paper outlines Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s C-ITS pilot infrastructure, discusses the key technical and practical factors taken into consideration and summarises the results achieved. As a result of this radio coverage planning exercise, we were able to achieve over 50% cost savings on infrastructure deployment for C-ITS services via ITS-G5 technology on the M50 and M1 motorways.

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   15. A Framework for Road Authorities to Assess Their Readiness to Support Connected and Automated Driving

       • Open Access

       Ianto Guy, Alex Wright, Kevin McPherson, Boris But, Risto Oorni, John McCarthy, Bahman Madadi, Ary P. Silvano, Jeannette Andersson, Adewole Adesiyun

       Abstract

       Connected and Automated Driving (CAD) will bring disruption to individuals, economies, and society. Most forms of CAD require some level of support from the infrastructure for their safe operation, in particular communications. However, additional infrastructure services to support CAD could improve safety and robustness and bring further benefits such as increased capacity. However, the infrastructure requirements of vehicle Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are not always clear, and it is therefore difficult for National Road Authorities (NRA) to prepare future levels of support for CAD, given rapidly evolving technology and uncertain projections of future CAD demand. There is a need to articulate those requirements, bringing stakeholders together to formulate a structured approach, and a roadmap that will advance safe and smart roads that support CAD.

       This paper presents the DiREC project (consortium partners: TRL, ARUP, TU Delft, VTT, VTI and FEHRL) funded by the CEDR Transnational Road Research Programme Call 2020 with funding provided by CEDR members of Belgium (Flanders), Denmark, Ireland, Israel, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. DiREC is seeking to address the above challenge. The project has established a CAV-Readiness Framework (CRF) based on a level of service approach to understand the needs of CAD, and to define the infrastructure and services that NRAs could provide to support these needs.

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   16. Framework for Rail Level Crossings Digital Twin Development

       • Open Access

       Boban Djordjevic, Evelin Krmac, Oskar Fröidh, Behzad Kornejad

       Abstract

       The digital Twin (DT) is a technology that can be used to create a virtual representation or model of any physical entity. With the help of DT it is therefore possible to optimise the performance of the virtualised physical system and have a direct impact on increasing its competitiveness, efficiency and productivity, as the data flow can also be bidirectional.

       The DT of rail level crossings (RLCs) holds great potential for increasing rail safety. With the introduction of digitised components of the railway signalling system, the development of a suitable DT of RLCs is of great importance. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to define the basic requirements for the DT development of RLCs. The paper first analyses the past practises in the development of DTs in railway applications. Furthermore, essential input parameters of RLCs are defined, including the time of closing and opening of RLCs, the warning time, and the operating and blocking times of RLCs. With the aim of reducing the waiting time of road users in the era of train automation and digitalisation, the optimal location of balises and train speed should also be considered. The defined requirements and parameters form the essential elements of the framework for the development of the digital RLC twin.

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   17. AUTOMODAL - Automation of Inland Container Terminal Cranes Solving People Detection in the Operating Range

       • Open Access

       Maximilian Schellert, Agnes Eiband, Tammo Märtens, Felix Kremer, Maximilian Otten, Uwe Clausen, Irfan Yildiz, Michael Herbold, David Bauer, Moritz Sauter

       Abstract

       The AutoModal project results show the prototypical end-to-end automation of the transshipment terminal. An essential component is the automation of a gantry crane, which was converted for this purpose so that independent automated processes could be carried out. The focus of the work was on the conversion and prototypical operation of the crane automation in a reference terminal. For this purpose, the gantry crane was equipped with additional sensors to ensure safe and reliable detection of persons in the crane environment and to enable automated operation. Suitable solutions were evaluated from a wide selection of sensors and tested on a test model. In parallel, suitable control software was developed, interfaces harmonized and hardware components integrated for operation. The software modules developed was published onto the GitLab Open Source platform. The following article describes the main outcome of the project. AutoModal was carried out as part of the funding programme for innovative port technologies of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport Affairs.

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   18. The 5G-RACOM Project: 5G for Resilient and Green Rail COMmunications

       • Open Access

       B. Holfeld, R. Fritzsche, T. Karabinos, G. Boistault, M. Berbineau, U. Geier, O. Eudes, A. Ende, K. Mößner, T. Bauschert, A. Mitschele-Thiel, A. Sabra, Y. Corre, P. Pajusco

       Abstract

       The German-French innovation project 5G-RACOM is investigating solutions for the efficient, reliable and sustainable use of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) and the associated frequency spectrum. FRMCS is foreseen to be the successor to GSM-R and will ensure high-performance and real-time wireless communication between trains and infrastructure based on 5G technologies. FRMCS will deliver the basis for the digitalization and automation of railway operations and is, hence, fundamental to increase rail network capacity. 5G-RACOM has three objectives for a spectrum-efficient, a resilient and a robust FRMCS system design: (1) radio channel modeling studies at 900 MHz and 1900 MHz in different railroad operational scenarios including high-speed lines, tunnels, rural areas, (2) evaluation of the coexistence of GSM-R and FRMCS at 900 MHz and prototype development for technology migration, and (3) solutions for hybrid FRMCS networks in which the private FRMCS network is complemented by public mobile networks, e.g., as a fallback layer or capacity enhancement.

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   19. New Roads Governance Framework Based on Circularity

       • Open Access

       Mª. Antonia Pérez Hernando, Christian Moreno, Rubén Eraña, David García Sánchez

       Abstract

       One of the activities that can most influence climate neutrality is the activity of infrastructure construction.

       Some countries already include environmental concepts in the development of their infrastructures, as an approximation to neutrality, but this is insufficient, it is necessary to be more ambitious, and define in a broad and global way, a governance framework that includes this concept in detail, throughout their life cycle.

       To this end, a methodology is proposed that defines the neutrality of infrastructures based on circularity, including this concept in governance processes, through circularity indicators.

       In addition, to show its validity, it is applied to the contracting in the construction phase of the A-67 Highway project, Capacity Expansion, in Spain.

       Obtaining very good improvements in infrastructure governance, thus contributing to climate neutrality.

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   20. CEMBOX. Digital Twin Oriented Infrastructure Asset Management Platform

       • Open Access

       Jose Solis-Hernandez, Paula Lopez-Arevalo, Juan Gallego-Gueto, Jose Sanchez-Guerrero, Noemi Jimenez-Redondo

       Abstract

       CEMBOX Digital Twin oriented Platform has been conceived to address the pressing needs in terms of design, maintenance, retrofitting and digitisation in the fields of infrastructure and mobility. The Platform’s Digital Twin is conceived as a real-time replica of the infrastructure that enables (i) the visualisation of assets in an interoperable BIM-GIS environment, (ii) the inspection of the state of infrastructure assets, integrating advanced inspection and monitoring technologies by means of IoT systems and other ICT enablers, and (iii) infrastructure condition analysis by means of Artificial Intelligence and advanced structural health monitoring algorithms, analysing the evolution of condition state over time, so as to support asset management decision-making.

       Following the needs of infrastructure asset inspection, maintenance, and management, CEMBOX has been orchestrated into four main services described in this article: Management, Inspection, Monitoring and Planning.

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   21. Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to Prioritize Network Benefits When Applying Novel Traffic Management Strategies

       • Open Access

       Marios Giouroukelis, Eleni Mantouka, Eleni I. Vlahogianni

       Abstract

       Continuous developments in computer technology and communications and their application in traffic operations have led to the development of several Traffic Management Strategies (TMS). This study applies the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to gather and consolidate stakeholder preferences, allowing for the identification of the most important network benefits obtained from implementing four emerging TMS. AHP provides a robust, cost-effective and popular framework for making similar decisions in complex, multi-stakeholder decision situations. To apply the AHP, we have solicited ten stakeholders of various backgrounds (private and public operators, transit authorities etc.) from four European cities: Athens (Greece), Manchester (UK), Lisbon (Portugal) and Rennes (France). Stakeholders were individually requested to express their preferences through pairwise comparisons across four axes (objectives): Service Performance, Network Efficiency, Economic Performance, and Environmental Performance. Each objective was linked to a scenario-specific KPI, which was communicated to stakeholders and allows for concrete TMS performance measurement, ex-ante (e.g. through simulation), or ex-post, on the field. It is derived that stakeholders prioritize differently the potential benefits arising from the implementation of each TMS.

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   22. Comparing Random Forests and Multinomial Logit Models for Urban Travel Mode Choice Under Innovative Traffic Management Strategies

       • Open Access

       Christos Konstantinou, Eleni Mantouka, Marios Giouroukelis, Eleni I. Vlahogianni

       Abstract

       This study explores the factors affecting travel mode choices upon the implementation of two innovative Traffic Management Strategies in an urban setting, namely a Transit Signal Priority system and a Congestion Pricing scheme. To gather the necessary data, a stated preferences survey was conducted in three major European cities: Athens (Greece), Lisbon (Portugal), and Manchester (United Kingdom), aimed at the elicitation of individuals’ preferences when selecting travel modes. The collected data from each city were used to develop and calibrate multiple mode choice models, including econometric Discrete Choice (DC) models such as the Multinomial Logit (MNL), as well as state-of-the-art Machine Learning models like the Random Forest (RF) classifiers. Through the evaluation and comparison of the models’ results, we present an analysis of the factors influencing mode choice and we highlight the similarities and differences in the performance and interpretation of parametric and non-parametric models. The findings from this study can inform the development of sustainable transportation systems and contribute to more efficient decision-making processes in urban mobility management.

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   23. Data Communication System for Remote Train Operation on Regional Lines, Including Video Integration

       • Open Access

       Patrick Urassa, Øyvind T. Myhrvold, Nils O. E. Olsson

       Abstract

       In modern transportation, the railway plays a crucial role in connecting societies. The evolution of railway transportation towards automation and digital infrastructure prompts innovative advancements, notably in remote train control. This transition is effectively revolutionizing the transportation system and represents a significant stride toward achieving fully autonomous trains on regional line operations. This study explores the critical role of data communication systems in enabling the remote driving of trains. It addresses the prerequisites of data communication in railway remote driving and emphasizes the necessity for real-time, reliable, and low-latency communication between trains and control centers. The study assesses the fulfillment of existing and planned railway mobile communication systems (GSM-R, FRMCS) with the requirements. It also examines the strengths and limitations in meeting the demands of remote driving scenarios with video support. The study underscores the significance of video communication within railway infrastructure and draws insights from other sectors to enhance safety, security, and operational efficiency.

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   24. Modelling Probabilistic Digital Twins of Complex Inland Waterway Transportation Systems Using Bayesian Networks

       • Open Access

       Alexandra Micu, Lorcan Connolly, Alan O’Connor, Eugene O’Brien, Caitriona de Paor

       Abstract

       The Horizon Europe Project, ReNEW, uses the digital twin concept to simulate and model the complexity and interdependencies of the Inland Waterway Transport (IWT) system. This concept is used to design novel strategies to ensure network functionality despite climate change impacts on IWT. A digital twin is an accurate copy of a real object/item/system with associated characteristics in the digital world. Digital twin models can be developed using physics or statistics or combining the two. They can be used for simulation, classification, prediction, optimization, and more. This work proposes probabilistic digital twin modelling of complex IWT networks using Bayesian networks. Bayesian networks are statistical models that can address the complexity and uncertainty of the physical world. The availability of new data/information facilitates model updates, resulting in more accurate estimates.

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   25. Using Accelerometers on an In-Service Train to Detect Bridge Damage and Repair

       • Open Access

       E. Alexandra Micu, Cathal Bowe, Vikram Pakrashi, Abdollah Malekjafarian, Eugene OBrien

       Abstract

       One pier and two spans of Malahide Viaduct (Dublin, Ireland) were replaced in 2009 due to bridge scour failure. The new (replaced) parts of the structure are considerable stiffer than the rest of it. An in-service passenger train, instrumented with accelerometers, collected vibration data as it crossed the repaired bridge that serves the Dublin-Belfast railway line. This paper reports on an analysis of the bogie vertical acceleration data. Vibration data collected from 41 train crossings were analysed in the time and frequency domains. Results show that there is (visual) evidence that the stiffened spans vibrate less than the rest of the bridge as the train crosses. Multiple signal responses, grouped by train velocity, add to the evidence of a stiffer section of the bridge where two spans were replaced. Moreover, the observed signals have good spatial repeatability, despite the fact that the effect of load is also acknowledged to have an impact. Overall, the results suggest that instrumented trains can be successfully used for continuous condition monitoring of the railway infrastructure and, consequently, for detecting damage or rehabilitation needs.

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   26. Field Validation of Damage Detection in a Railway Bridge in Ireland Using Sensor Redeployment

       • Open Access

       C. Bowe, E. J. OBrien, M. A. Khan, D. McCrum, V. Pakrashi

       Abstract

       Accelerometers on a bridge can be used to extract dynamic properties such as mode shape which are known to be damage-sensitive. However, as bridges are often physically large, this can require a significant number of sensors. In this paper, the concept of re-deploying a small number of sensors is proposed, building up the mode shape from a series of field acceleration measurements. Frequency Domain Decomposition is used to find segments of mode shape in each measurement, using a different train as the source of excitation in each case. In numerical simulations of a simply supported beam, it is shown that a minimum of two accelerometers can be used to construct two points of a mode shape, the first mode being the one most sensitive to excitation. Mode shape amplitudes are calculated in segments which are then stitched together to obtain the global mode shape. In numerical simulations, failure of the support bearings is represented as an increase in rotational spring stiffnesses. This is shown to have a significant effect on the shape of the first mode. The concept was tested in a field trial, before and after the bridge was repaired. The measured mode shape, represented as an envelope of possible shapes, was seen to change significantly when the support system was rehabilitated, and new bearings installed.

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   27. Asset Information Management for a Communications Network in Ireland

       • Open Access

       Aonghus O’Keeffe, David Torrado

       Abstract

       A major public asset owner in Ireland sought to collate structured asset information that could be used for improving future decision making in respect of a communications network. Due to the lack of an organization-wide standardized approach to asset information management, the authors proposed a vendor-neutral, standards-based approach, with machine-readable rules and instance data using Web technologies. Clearly defined use cases were elicited from end users such as maintainers and operators. A sub-set of these use cases was selected to identify information needed for each asset type, focusing on the most important information. To define the machine-readable rules, ontologies and validation scripts were developed iteratively through use case testing on small data sets. A proprietary site inspection mobile application was used to gather data, which was also supplemented through desktop study of as-built records. The data was then exported, post-processed, transformed, automatically validated, and uploaded to the database. The agreed use cases were achieved and demonstrated to the asset owner. The work presented various technical challenges, including software functionality, availability of information, post-processing of collected data, communicating the outcomes. However, the prospective benefits warrant due attention by public asset owners seeking to futureproof their data and systems.

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   28. A Data-Driven Framework for Detecting Railway Maintenance Needs Using Acceleration Data Collected from Passing Trains

       • Open Access

       Ramin Ghiasi, Abdollah Malekjafarian

       Abstract

       There is a fast-growing need for maintenance of railway track systems due to increasing the number of passengers and freight transport in the past few years. In this paper, a novel data-driven method is proposed to detect different maintenance needs of railway track systems using vertical acceleration data collected from an operational passenger train. The framework contains four modules. Firstly, a data pre-processing and cleansing is performed to extract useful data from the whole dataset. Then, condition-sensitive features are extracted from the raw data. In the third module, the best subset of measurement features that characterize the state of the tracks are selected using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) algorithm which eliminates irrelevant characteristics from the time domain feature set of responses. Finally, a multilabel classification algorithm based on the Support-Vector Machine (SVM) is used to classify the type of maintenance needs of track. An open-access dataset from a field study in the United States is used in this study for validation of the proposed method. Results show that when an SVM is used, a higher accuracy can be achieved for detecting tamping and surfacing needs in comparison with k-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) and Decision Tree (DT). In addition, the impact of using different features selection methods, different classification algorithms and different accelerometer types (uniaxial and triaxial accelerometers) on the accuracy of the proposed approach is studied.

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   29. Enhancing the Performance of Emergency Vehicles Through Reinforcement Learning Based DVSL Control Systems

       • Open Access

       Fatemeh Bandarian, Eric Gyamfi, Evangelos Mitsakis, Evangelos Mintsis, Abdollah Malekjafarian, Fatemeh Golpayegani

       Abstract

       Variable Speed Limits (VSL) have been used to dynamically control traffic via the adaptation of vehicular speed with the aim to mitigate congestion, enhance safety and traffic flow performance. Recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of employing Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) techniques for VSL controllers, resulting in improved safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability on highways. However, the conventional RL models for VSL control systems have not been trained to prioritize and facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. This paper proposes a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm which utilizes an actor-critic model by training the DVSL controller and a novel reward function to optimize the time loss of emergency vehicles across a highway weaving section. The results show that the proposed approach outperforms the baseline method with no VSL in terms of the accumulated waiting time, accumulated time loss, average time loss of emergency vehicles and the average travel time of all the vehicles.

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   30. Software Patterns and Architectural Decisions for a Next-Generation Traffic Management System in the TANGENT Project

       • Open Access

       Tiago Dias, Ana V. Silva, Lara Moura

       Abstract

       This paper introduces the TANGENT project and how it is exploring Dynamic Management of Multimodal Traffic in four European cities. It focuses on how specific software patterns and architectural decisions are contributing to the success in creating and trialling a Simulation powered Next-Generation Traffic Management System. It starts by exploring the motivation behind a TANGENT API where a REST API coexists with a Message Queue Broker and how they synergize to cover the different needs of distinct data producers and consumers within and around the TANGENT project. It then explores a generic approach for the different pieces of the TANGENT API. How incoming data handling from the message queue service is implemented generically in the TANGENT API, how the REST API is implemented with this same approach and how the OpenAPI documentation of the REST API is produced. Highlighting the central role of the JSON Schemas and meta-data stored in TANGENT Schema catalogue and how it is simple to add new data sources with this approach as opposed to custom handling the individual data sources.

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   31. Tolling Dematerialization Use Cases

       • Open Access

       Ana V. Silva, Tiago Dias, André Amaral Costa, Lara Trigueiro Moura

       Abstract

       Road User Charging, Dynamic Congestion Pricing, Emissions Charging, and Urban Access Control are appearing worldwide as examples of more complex, dynamic, or rule-based types of road pricing. The existing tags/transponders or video recognition tolling solutions do not scale adequately for these use cases, whereas more dematerialized solutions such as Mobile Tolling, GNSS Tolling, or Vehicle to Everything (V2X) Tolling do. This paper describes A-to-Be’s research and development for these advanced use cases, how Mobile Tolling accuracy was enhanced using Bluetooth, how the V2X software stack was adapted to tolling and the overall trials with Mobile Tolling and V2X Tolling prototypes.

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   32. Simulating the Effects of Connected and Automated Vehicles on Traffic Management

       • Open Access

       Tamás Attila Tomaschek, Viktor Tihanyi, András Rövid, Zsolt Vincze

       Abstract

       Automation in road traffic is reshaping our future lives, and mobility. Autonomous cars require new approaches from a road operator in all activities, including traffic management. Next generation of traffic management should go hand in hand with the development of autonomous cars via open road tests. An ongoing Hungarian research project is focusing on realizing a transport ecosystem using state-of-the-art technology to develop a comprehensive solution to support autonomous vehicles in cooperation with the infrastructure. The solution builds up an external environment model in the cloud. The system will utilize all information from both vehicle and infrastructure side by fusing data from both sources together in a cloud based, real time digital twin. The scope of the project is to provide a platform for road infrastructure related cloud-based services for connected and automated vehicles. The new test environment is going to be a perfect location to simulate and evaluate the effects of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV) on traffic management.

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   33. Enhancing Public Transportation Operations Through Service Reinforcement, Bunching Detection and Data-Driven Analysis

       • Open Access

       Andoni Mujika, Iker Arandia, Itziar Urbieta, Harbil Arregui, Estíbaliz Loyo

       Abstract

       This paper introduces a system designed to assist a public transport operator, in identifying services requiring reinforcement, predicting or detecting service bunching, and refining schedules based on historical data analysis. In routes with low frequency, the system analyzes factors such as occupancy, punctuality, punctuality trend, and the percentage of completed routes to generate a prioritized list of services that could benefit from additional vehicles for reinforcement. For high-frequency routes, the system examines the distances between consecutive vehicles and their behavior to identify groups of services that may result in bunching scenarios. Furthermore, a regression study is conducted to uncover punctuality patterns that may necessitate a reevaluation of official schedules.

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   34. Service Orchestration and Network Function Virtualization for Information Systems Maintenance Service in Railway Systems

       • Open Access

       Anna Lina Ruscelli, Gabriele Cecchetti

       Abstract

       Information and Communication Technologies can support the progressive digitalization of the railways sector improving its efficiency and sustainability. In particular, Service Orchestration and Network Function Virtualization can push forward a paramount evolution of railways Traffic Management Systems (TMS) allowing remote operations of their different components, reducing their complexity and improving their effectiveness and scalability.

       In this paper the architecture of a new generation TMS based on micro-services supported by Service Orchestration and Network Function Virtualization is presented. It allows highly flexible and re-configurable networks and services, through the implementation of a service as a general replicable function available in a Virtual Machine or a container within a remote data center or a local general purpose fog node, improving the efficiency of railways control and management systems.

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   35. Dynamic 2D Scene Analysis Inside Train Compartments Using Deep Learning Techniques

       • Open Access

       Youssef Bendraou

       Abstract

       This paper presents a comprehensive study on scene analysis inside a train using computer vision and deep learning techniques. The primary objective is to develop a dynamic 2D representation of the perceived scene by continuously projecting passengers onto a 2D plan. The research contributions focus on detecting abnormal situations inside a train, such as passenger discomfort and forgotten luggage. To achieve optimal results, we rigorously tested cutting-edge deep learning techniques, including convolutional neural networks (CNN) for object detection and tracking. Through fine-tuning pretrained models on annotated datasets, our system achieves precise localization of individuals, enabling accurate estimation of their actions. Additionally, temporal analysis is used to moderate anomaly detection mechanisms for identifying situations requiring attention. The AI-based system has undergone rigorous real-time evaluation using RGB cameras installed in an actual train car. Through an onboard train sever, our system proactively identifies potential abnormal situations and sends alert to a supervision application. During testing sessions on the train, several scenarios involving unattended luggage and passenger discomfort were successfully identified in real-time, with high confidence rates.

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   36. Traffic Regulations in the Digital Age

       • Open Access

       Jenny Lundahl, Cilli Sobiech, Niklas Thidevall

       Abstract

       This paper describes our insights from a collaboration project on digital and machine-readable traffic rules – what it is, why it matters and how we get there. Traffic rules are typically written in text intended for humans. We argue that traffic rules, in the future, must be understood by machines as well. In a digital world we need data on traffic rules. Road users, citizens, companies, and other actors in our society would benefit from such data. Innovative forms of transportation, not least automated vehicles, depend on such data. Relying on e.g. road signs is not sufficient for automated vehicles in order to follow all traffic rules. In the project, we investigated what is needed to reach machine-readable traffic rules in Sweden. The work was conducted as a policy lab. We found that the way forward is an amendment to the legislation that requires decision-making authorities to digitalize their traffic regulations.

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   37. UAV Integration into Airport Infrastructure Inspection Procedures—Case Study Zagreb Airport

       • Open Access

       Irina Stipanovic, Matija Bracic, Marin Tica, Sandra Skaric Palic, Emir Ganic, Igor Stimac

       Abstract

       Within the EU project OLGA (Holistic & Green Airports), one of the main objectives is to reduce emissions and develop decarbonizing solutions for airside operations. In this paper, we will describe the proposed methodology and newly developed procedures for the usage of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for the inspection of airport airside areas. Such an approach may bring significant benefits: i) Reduction of air pollution (in line with European Green Deal policy), ii) Better efficiency of infrastructure inspection and higher accuracy of detection of anomalies on operational surfaces, iii) Multiple measurements (inspection) per one drone operation and iv) Improvement of the Safety Management System at the airport.

       To enable safe and secure usage of UAV in a daily routine inspection, it was necessary to develop a workflow for the integration of UAV into airport operations, which included the development of AD-HOC structure / procedure. The analysis of the whole process, which includes the collaboration between air traffic control, civil aviation agency, airport operational and asset management, is presented in the paper. The application of UAV for the inspection of the airside areas is analysed and presented with the aim of assessing the feasibility, capability, cost efficiency and environmental impacts of the implementation of UAV into daily, monthly and/or annual inspection procedures at the airports.

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